Investigating Nano and Microplastic induced Neurotoxicity in iPSC Derived Human Models of Neuronal Networks Aston University

Overview

Plastic degradation products are now recognized as emerging environmental threats which are of high global concern. The large volume of production, use and improper waste management have exacerbated the ubiquity of micro- and nanoplastics in various environmental matrices and their risks (Nielsen et al., Int. J. Ener. Res., 9: e360, 2020). 

From the human health perspective, a primary concern of plastic pollution in the environment is the inevitable breakdown into micro and nanoplastics, followed by oligomers and finally soluble or volatile chemicals. In our previous project we have established a methodology for synthesis of chemically and geometrically well-defined nanoparticle models for biological studies from commercially available common plastic materials: polystyrene (PS) from beanbag filling and coffee cup lids, Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which is commonly known as plexiglass, polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), which together account for a large amount of plastic waste found in the environment. 

These were shown to induce DNA damage, apoptosis, and the cell cycle alterations in the human lungs derived models in vitro (manuscript in preparation). Current evidence also suggests that upon uptake, micro- and nanoplastics can reach the brain, although there is extremely limited information regarding the potential neurotoxicity of these small plastic particles (Han et al., Neural Regen Res, 19:331-335, 2023). Our laboratory has recently developed a method for the establishment of microfluidic human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived neuronal and glia cells networks as a clinically relevant model for studies of neuronal injuries and neuroregenertion.

The  Investigating Nano and Microplastic induced Neurotoxicity in iPSC Derived Human Models of Neuronal Networks course at Aston University  will use this new experimental model system to establish the neurotoxicity mechanisms of model plastic nanoparticles in human neuronal networks.

Career prospects

Studying for a PhD is a great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.

In addition to this specialist knowledge, a PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.

The variety of PhD project topics at Aston means that the destinations of our graduates vary substantially. Some choose to continue into academia, at either Aston or other leading institutions, while others go onto use their newly acquired skills in a range of research, healthcare, industry, or charitable fields. When selecting your chosen PhD path at Aston, your supervisor will be able to provide you with relevant career opportunities that could be available to you in your specialist area.